European survival kit: wise awareness but largely insufficient content

Recently, the European Commissioner for Crisis Preparedness and Management, Hadja Lahbib, unveiled the "European Survival Kit," an initiative aimed at encouraging citizens to prepare for crises. The announcement sparked a flurry of criticism , with some seeing it as alarmist, while others criticized the lack of seriousness in the proposed content.

While the idea of ​​raising awareness among the population about self-reliance in emergency situations is a good one, it must be noted that the kit recommended by the EU remains very light.

"Flashlight, lighter, matches (...) And water, of course, because water is life. And my best friend: a Swiss Army knife. Eighteen tools in one knife, a must-have."
- Hadja Lahbib, European Commissioner for Crisis Preparedness and Management.

Almost true: In the event of conflict, natural disaster, or infrastructure collapse, minimal preparation requires much more than a simple first aid kit and a few non-perishable foods.

A 72-hour kit that is far too weak for real autonomy

The concept of a 72-hour EU survival kit is a good start (Wildtactic already offers one), but the proposed version doesn't cover the most critical situations. What happens if communication networks are cut? If roads are blocked? If water and electricity supplies are interrupted for weeks? The card game included in the EU pack wouldn't be much help... And preparedness isn't just a bag.

A true survival kit should allow you to last much longer and include essential items covering areas such as:

• Drinking water (filters, purification tablets, reserves)
• Long-life food (freeze-dried rations, canned food, energy foods)
• Autonomous means of communication (hand-cranked radio, walkie-talkies)
• Lighting and energy (solar lamps, power banks, batteries)
• Protection and shelter (survival blanket, light tent, suitable clothing)
• Multi-function tools (knife, fire starter, rope)
• Advanced first aid (medications, suture materials, tourniquets)

It's also a good idea to have road maps with you in case telecommunications systems are affected. It's also a good idea to have a planned route... "Stay prepared, stay safe" means, above all, anticipate.

Being seriously prepared means anticipating all scenarios.

While the EU deserves credit for recognizing the importance of individual preparedness, it's a shame that its recommendations remain so basic. In an unstable geopolitical context, settling for a minimalist kit is a mistake. Citizens must be encouraged to develop survival skills (first aid, orientation, energy self-sufficiency) and to build up reserves adapted to their geographical and family circumstances.

Yes to equipment, but let's do it right

Rather than limiting ourselves to negative publicity about government communications, let's use this awareness to promote a true culture of resilience. If the time is right to equip ourselves, we might as well do it seriously.

➡️ Discover our selection of survival and evacuation kits, tested in conditions.